The Mystery of Cellulite (Solved)

by Belinda on January 10, 2018

Have you ever been going along your own sweet little way in life, when suddenly you are hit like a ton of bricks with a shocking realization? Not fun.

Let me tell you about one of those moments! I was in a department store dressing room trying on a one-piece swimsuit at age 37. At the time I had been married for 13 years and to be honest, I never really bothered to look at – let alone think about my body. As you all know, I had never exercised and lived on a diet of coffee, biscuits (cookies) and lollies (sweets).

But suddenly under those nasty fluorescent lights –

I realized my whole lower body was covered in deep cellulite.

My ex-husband was waiting outside the dressing room wondering what was taking so long – the truth was, I was trying to compose myself, in tears, wondering where the body I once had was. I didn’t recognize the stranger in the mirror.

Listen, cellulite can affect anyone! It isn’t weight or age related.

And women are far more predisposed to it given the genetic structure of our fat layer (over 90% of cellulite cases occur in women).

The good news is, there is a solution.

If you suffer from cellulite by now you should be feeling some rays of hope shining into that dark place you keep hidden on the inside of you. Things can change so keep reading and stay with me while we cover a little science stuff.

What is Cellulite?

Cellulite is the bumpy appearance of the skin caused by fat cells protruding from lower subcutaneous (fat) layer of the skin into the supporting layer (the dermis). The job of the dermis is to cushion the top layer of the skin keeping it firm and taut. When the fat cells push up irregularly into the dermis it causes the surface of the skin to look dimpled.

It is important you notice how the muscle is directly underneath the fat layer and how the septa is connected to the muscle fibers and the dermis holding the fat cells in place.

How can exercise reduce cellulite?

When the muscle fibers underneath the cellulite are stimulated with female specific exercises the muscle becomes denser and firmer and pushes upwards, evenly compressing the fat layer and septa smoothing the surface of the skin so the dimples and bumps disappear. Here are some example exercises.

What I discovered from my clients and my own transformation – is that reducing and even getting rid of cellulite is possible when you combine the right female specific exercises,with the correct form, speed and sequence.

You see, the body is a very complex machine made up of hundreds of muscles. To illustrate just check this out!

Developing the muscle tone directly below the cellulite flattens the fat layer to smooth the surface of the skin so the cellulite bumps and dimples are no longer visible.

Easier said than done because the body is very smart – it seeks the path of least resistance – to anything. Even unconsciously it will “cheat” and find the easiest way to do an exercise and quickly adapt – which is often using the muscles we are used to, rather than the ones that really need to do the work. This is one of the main reasons many of my workout techniques involve unusual combinations of exercises and lots of variations. I know it gets results.

If you’d like a proven plan to help you lose weight, eat well and deal with cellulite once and for all then please check out my Get Lean Program. It takes you by the hand and walks you step by step to losing weight, getting rid of cellulite and building lean, body-toning muscle — in a healthy and sustainable way. You deserve the best that life has to offer and I’m here to help you make it happen.

Hi Belinda, I happened on your website when searching about cellulite. I am 58 years old. Soon as I hit menopause, a couple of years ago, I started gaining weight. I also have hypothyroidism for which I am being treated. My biggest problem areas are my upper body and stomach. I’ve always had a small butt. I guess I have an apple body shape. I am am very active and love to hike. What is driving me crazy right now is the cellulite on my upper arms. I hate wearing sleeveless tops and dresses. I listened to your video and read about the program and was wondering how well it would address upper body fat and cellulite. Thank you!

Hi Teresa! I understand your challenge. My program has very specific upper body and arm toning workouts that will help you improve the firmness, smoothness and texture of your arms. The key is being consistent and doing the routines 3 times a week plus of course watching your nutrition (sugar, alcohol etc). The same principles for getting rid of cellulite for the lower body, apply to the upper body Does this help? Bel XO

Hi Belinda! Thank you for all the information! You are such an inspiration!!
I’m 23 y/o And have alot (!!) of cellulite on My lower body… I have had it since i started puberty. My weight is normal.. My question for you is: because i’m soon to study to become a personal trainer, i work out 3 times a week strenght, but i also want to do the Lean program or the method to hopefully Get rid of some og My cellulite. Can i still do My strengt training while doing the cellulite rutine? Will i in that case do them together or at different days.
I also walk My dog everyday, i dont know if that count as cardio…

Good question. Yes you can do both types of training. On Get Lean we’ll customize your weekly plan for optimal results and you’ll receive personalized coaching via my forum. I hope to see you on the program! Bel XO

Hi Belinda,
Thank you for your blog.
I have always been a victim of cellulite, my mother too. I am 5’7 and 130 lbs. I run, I lunge and squat, lift weights. My cellulite has been reduced but unfortunately still more than I prefer. Do you think having thinner skin is generic factor? I have been doing Pilates lately and my once firm bum seems really jiggly. Is this because I am losing inches or muscle? Pilates is 30 minutes at home (Mari Winsor thigh and butt sculpting video) . I still run 3 plus miles a day most days of the week, at least 5 and lift weights. I do squats about 3 times a week. I am just curious why the change I my hip and bum area. Before I can squeeze it it was firm
Now it is a bunch of flab. Is
This just temporary? Please help. Thanks in advance. Btw this only started
Happening since Pilates video which I have been doing for 3 or 4 weeks maybe 3 times a week tops.

Hi Lisa! If you’ve lost a fair bit of weight quickly that can tend to make the cellulite more noticeable. It also depends on your body composition – body fat % versus lean muscle mass. Thinner skin may make the cellulite more noticeable but the real issue is with the underlying muscle layer. In my experience, the type of training you’re doing (a fair bit of cardio plus weights) I find doesn’t seem to improve the muscle density that’s required to reduce cellulite. If you’d like to know more please message me via my Help Desk Bel XO

Hi Belinda,
I have looked at trainers & videos, so many of them, even bought a few & worked out with a few trainers but, can’t seem to get the result I want & I feel like something is missing. I’m around 5’8-9 weight has always been 110-135, as I got older wear size 4-6, for the most part ate whatever I wanted the older I got mid 30s, started eating good, no fried. Chips & salsa are my down fall. Long story short I was diagnosed with MS, 2yrs ago, mid March, 2014. I weighed 140, by the time June-July came I was 120, not so good at my height. I think the train hit me & was still sinking in with the MS. Wasn’t really hungry, kinda lost my go power, no gym no anything. Starting loosing muscle & strength & the cellulite came piling on worse than it was. Came across your story & your picture of you before, & it hit me, wow a normal woman that wasn’t already skinny. Nice to see. Then I just read, Pili’s story, then I didn’t really feel alone, skinny with cellulite. People don’t understand why I won’t wear shorts or swimsuits, because “oh you look so good”, (in clothes, yeah), but not in anything with my legs showing. My life is pretty busy granddaughter, my small salon & gift shop, leaves working out in the morning which that is the time I’ve always worked out. Ive tried to eat what the trainer has told me to eat, meal prep, didn’t work out for me. I need reality meals, meals that are made for my body type or when I’m suppose to eat & what. I caught myself hung on protein, but could never get the muscle tone I wanted. I would like to purchase your program but I want to make sure, the meal plan will work for me.
Thank you for your time.
Tabatha

Hi Tabatha, I understand your frustrations and many women feel like this after trying lots of different programs and diets. There is so much information out there it’s hard to tell the difference between what’s solid and what’s hype. Not only that, as you’ve discovered, it’s very important to customize your eating and workouts for your body and lifestyle. And it’s important to enjoy it – so you stick with the program.

Here is more information on the Eating Plan. If you’d like to message me via my Help Desk I can explain in more detail how the program can help you. I am excited at the prospect of coaching you as it sounds like this is just what you’re looking for. Hope to hear from you soon! Bel xoxo

It is great to read about the success of others, however, what can a person do when they have OA in one knee and herniated lumbar discs. They suffer with pain days after doing recommended exercises which predominantly involve bending at the knees. Are there any knee friendly variations?

I just wanted to update you and your readers with my progress – One year later I have reduced the cellulite on my lower body by about 50 percent (doing targeted body weight/light weight training twice per week, HIIT once per week, occasional walking and yoga as a cool down stretch after working out, eating healthy with occasional treats) – Everything is lifted and toned and looks great.

There is still some cellulite on my lower body, but after going to a ladies gym I realised how common cellulite is even on women who have fit, toned and amazing looking bodies. I saw women who were competing in body building and body sculpting competitions that have cellulite.

So my personal conclusion after one year of worrying: who cares if you have a few dimples, if you are fit, healthy and confident! Even on a toned body, cellulite is normal and most women have it. Celebrities and models are not immune to it either. Being and feeling healthy is far more important to me now, and I hope my little story inspires other women out there too.

Hello Belinda,
I’ve always been slim bit with cellulite/water retention on glutes and legs. 2 years ago I’ve started to train in the gym and eat clean: fish, lean meat, fruits, vegetables, brown rice, kamut pasta etc… but my cellulite is always there. I have build a lot of tone but legs are my week point… on the upper body I’m very lean.. I’d like to compete but I can’t with cellulite! My coach told me that my diet was too high in carbs, even in they’re healthy, so now I’ll start a diet program with low carbs..
About the training, do you suggest lifting heavy with low reps or lifting not heavy with high reps?

Great to meet you and thanks for your message. Well done on those healthy changes. I believe in a healthy balance of carbs, healthy fats and protein…I don’t think low carb is ideal for getting rid of cellulite. You need female specific exercises, it’s not about the reps and weight. Try out this workout, if your muscles are sore the next day in all the right places…then I would consider trying one of my workout programs. If you need more information you can message me on my Help Desk. I hope this helps! Bel xo

Hi Debbie, if you have knee problems I would recommend my Get Lean Program – I have a series of workouts especially for women who need to get in shape but have bad knees – Knee Friendly Leg Toning, Knee Strengthening Circuit etc. Feel free to message me via my Help Desk re your specific issues Bel xo

I have been working on getting rid of cellulite from my butt and thighs over the past 6 months with body weight and light weight training (twice per week). I have been working very hard and eating well and the whole of my lower body has totally transformed in shape and tone so I am happy about this. I have built muscle in that area, my butt has lifted dramatically and my legs are solid and toned. I look amazing, however I am very baffled because there is little or no difference to the cellulite! I have tried cavitation which did nothing for me. I am wondering if I need to add cardio to my routine? I cannot run due to knee injuries but I am a member of a ladies gym and have access to classes and cardio machines. I have been doing zumba once a week for fun but it is not challenging for me. I also do 30 min of PIYO once a week which is challenging, fun and works the whole body. Appreciate your comments

Hi Aggie, great to meet another Kiwi and thanks for posting. Awesome work on transforming your body – well done! It’s very surprising there is no difference to the cellulite despite that your lower body is now solid and toned. I don’t think cardio is the answer. I normally recommend lower body specific workouts at least 3 times a week to reshape and improve cellulite – so adding in an additional workout could help. But having said, that the exercises need to be very specific to the areas you’re trying to target and improve. To advise further it would be helpful to see some photos of your lower body so I can see exactly what you’re talking about. You can send them to me via my Help Desk which only myself and my assistant Meegan have access to – alternatively, message me there and I will give you my email address. I’d also like to review your eating, treats, alcohol and medications too as these are all factors. Talk soon! Bel xo

If I read the article correctly the women “bulked” ate at a caloric surplus over maintenance which built muscle and smoothed out the cellulite? Is that right?

I am 5’6″ 124 and lift VERY heavy focusing on glutes and hamstrings and I still have a ton of cellulite. I recently started cutting but I read conflicting stuff about needing to cut or bulk to smooth out the cellulite. I am happy with my size I just don’t like my shape. THANKS!

Re the calories – it depends on the individual. What’s important is making sure you’re getting a wide range of nutrient dense foods to build new muscle fibers. It’s the muscle density that makes the difference (not volume). Some women can reduce body fat while doing this, but it’s a case by case thing. Do you know your body fat %? When you say 124 – you mean 124 pounds? At your height (very close to me), plus weight your should be firm and defined if you’re doing everything right. What is your eating like? Alcohol? Contraceptive pill? There are lots of factors. You may want to consider my Bye Bye Cellulite Program or Get Lean. Either would be a good option. If you’ve been lifting very heavy but still have a ton of cellulite, something isn’t working. Bel

Hi Belinda! Thanks for the reply. I actually followed your Get Lean program years ago! In the meantime I had a baby, but I lifted the whole time and think I look pretty darn good for having a baby 8 months ago, but that dang cellulite!

Yes, I am 124lbs. I don’t know my BF exactly but I believe I am in the 19-20% range per the caliper which isn’t very accurate. My eating is 80% clean and I have had wine several times a week so I am cutting that out.

I am considering the Bye Bye Cellulite program. My question that I can never get a clear definitive on is about nutrition. Either eating at a deficit, or maintenance ( recomp) or bulk to build out more muscle. I have been told by a few people to maybe try carb cycling, so I am just confused about what my caloric intake should be because I think my training is on point.

Hi there!
Interesting read,
I’m just 20 years old, and have always had leg cellulite which hasn’t been too much of a problem.
I’m a healthy weight, but this year i have noticed a lot of cellulite on my stomach and a LOT more on my legs, and even on my upper arms, i’m also getting those varicose like veins that are blue and stand out ( i have quite pale skin)

I have been doing everything right, for three years now i have lived a mostly artificial free diet, unprocessed foods, vegetarian for 2 years now, minimal sugar, and if so only natural sources (fruits, coconut sugar)
I don’t drink or smoke, and i have been slacking off being active lately just because i feel so absolutely self conscious and down on my body, i’ve always been a little self conscious – as i’m sure everyone is, but now it’s at the point i don’t want to go out or be seen, although i’m a musician so i have to grit my teeth and bear with it.

It’s almost as if the cellulite came out of nowhere! and my stomach is riddled with it, i feel so unconfident and disgusting, and i don’t know what to do about it.

I eat a lot of vegetables, rice, no soft drinks/junk food, only dairy is natural organic yoghurt and i hardly ever drink coffee. My diet is really restricted and i feel like theres not a whole lot i can improve on it, so i just don’t know where to go next. Please help! is this normal for my age?

I also suffer from anxiety and depression, so I’m wondering if that factors in to my body suddenly turning against me (stress/cortisol etc)

Hi there,
I have been following the Naked Beauty Symulast workout combined with a healthy eating plan and some additional cardio and exercise for the last 3 weeks and am starting to notice a difference! ( Which I am thrilled about. – I am not looking at is as a diet rather a new way of life!!0 My question is in regards to the knee area which is a has additional fat deposits to the side and above the knee cap which do not seem to be reducing. Are there any exercises you could recommend for this as it is very unsightly? Ru x

Good morning. I just read your post. As a matter of fact I’ve been reading a million cellulite posts since January. I’m going to hawaii in September so I decided I needed up tone and lose weight. Well, I e lost 15lbs. I’m 36 yrs old. No biological children. I weighed 171 in January now I weigh 156. I’m hoping to be closer to 150 by September. It’s where I feel most comfortable weight wise. However happy I am about my weight loss, I’m noticing cellulite in my arms, stomach and thighs front, back and side. Now, I’ve always a a very little amount. I’ve seen it since I was 19. At this point though it’s not a little it’s awful and everywhere. I’m so embarrassed and it makes me want to cry. Actually I do cry often because it feels hopeless. I’ve been working out since March. Swimming 3 days a week for an hour. Intense, no stoping and fast pace walking 2 days a week. My joints were hurting so I had to start with swimming. However I just recently started doing weights (two – 5lbs weight) with aerobic classes. I can feel muscles I’ve never felt before so I feel like I’m working them but what im wondering is, how long before you see toning results? I know I’ll have some cellulite and I guess I’m okay with that, I just don’t want it all over. Please help advise me. Thank you for your time and your post. I can not wait to hear from you.

Hi Jacquie, thanks for posting. Congratulations on losing 15lbs but sorry to hear you’ve been feeling upset. It’s not an uncommon experience for women who lose weight relatively quickly to notice their cellulite looks worse. It’s simply because you’ve lost body fat (body volume) so the skin is more flaccid which can emphasize the cellulite in some places. However as I explain in my blog, building muscle tone helps to firm and smooth from the inside out will remedy this. Running and swimming don’t activate the muscles in the way they need to be to build new fibers but it sounds like the weights are working – especially that you’re feeling new muscles working. I normally say six weeks to evaluate a new exercise program so I would give it at least that to start seeing visible improvements. I hope this helps! Bel xo

Hi there! I’m a firm believer in listening to your body. If something doesn’t feel right, then it’s worth taking a closer look. Maybe talk with your doctor for their advice and decide from there. Hormones are a delicate thing. They can play a role in the propensity to gain fat in certain areas of the body. However, it’s rare they would cause cellulite in the first place. Ultimately, eating right and doing the right workout routines consistency are the key. Managing other contributing factors will help things along. Please let me know how things are going! Bel xo

I have no way to go and do weight training but I have really bad cellulite on the backs of my legs and by my knees… please help..
I work out daily for almost an hour and am eating healthy.. I’ve lost 10 poundo this last month and I feel like it’s just getting worse..

Please help me get rid of it.. like I said I can’t go to the gym for weight training..

Hi there, that’s a lot of working out at home! What are you doing? Well done on losing 10 pounds, great work. Sometimes when we lose weight quickly the cellulite looks worse due to slack skin and sagging – is that’s what’s happening? They key is building lean, strong muscle. It’s not necessary to go to a gym for weight training – bodyweight workouts are very effective. Let me know what type of exercise you’re doing and I’ll confirm back. It may be a matter of being patient and consistent. Hug, Bel xo

Hi I work out regularly and am in overall good shape but I have areas of cellulite. The back of my thighs actually look better the more I work out and eat right and I am not as concerned about them. But, lately as I have gotten older it is my arms and center stomach that have this weird dimpling usually visible in certain lighting. I really want to fix the arm issue most. Free weights and cardio aren’t helping much! I am thin and fit otherwise! Help!

Hi Danielle! Many women face this challenge too – very frustrating. How old are you? Hormonal changes leading into our 40’s and beyond can cause a redistribution of body fat – even though we weight the same we gain fat in the places you mention. A combination of nutritional tweaks and doing the right workouts for your body can make a big difference. Check this blog I wrote. Let me know if this helps! Bel xo

Hi Belinda,
Will your Bye Bye Cellulite exercises work the same as or better than the Symast method? I see you are still recommending it over your new program? I am confused which one to do? I have cellulite on back of legs and thighs and butt, and I just really need results fast. Will they both target as good as each other even though most of the exercises are different? What are the exact exercises you used to cure Pili of her cellulite? I have stubborn outer thigh dimples I cannot seem to get rid of!

Which routine should I focus on doing, how often, and would I have to do a bunch of other things too? Or just the program? I don’t want to lose weight I just need to ferris of the cellulite and tone. (Skinny fat) how much cardio should I do?

Hi Kaitlyn! Yes both programs will work in a similar way. If you have both I would alternate them as variety is good. Re Pili’s exact exercises – a combination of the exercises in my lower body programs – plus cleaning up her eating. Please send a ticket to my Help Desk with an overview of your daily eating, how often you’re currently working out and what you’re doing (including cardio). Your height and weight. I can advise in more detail from there! Talk soon, Bel xo

Hi, so I know this blog post was like 2 years ago but anyway, I’m 14 and I have always been slim and a little toned due to gymnastics and ballet but recently I have noticed cellulite on my legs and butt and it is making me reall self conscious. So I wanted to know am I too young to do weight training? And what exactly is it? Should I tell my mum about having cellulite? Any help, advice or just anything would seriously help Thank you

Hi Amber, lovely to meet you. Well done on the gymnastics and ballet. It’s quite common to see cellulite for the first time in our teens as our hormones change but things will settle down as you stay fit and eat well. I definitely think you should talk to your Mum. She will have some good reassurance and advice. Sometimes things look worse to us looking at our own body, than to others so a second opinion would be good. You’re still growing so I wouldn’t recommend weight training. If you’re still doing gymnastics and ballet that’s great. 20 minutes of running three times a week is great cardio exercise and will tone your lower body. I would also consider your eating; cut back sugary drinks, sweets and lollies, cakes and chocolates. Try to to eat fresh, whole, natural (unprocessed) foods, learn how to cook. Maybe your Mum could help you chat with your local doctor for a healthy eating plan – or there may be something available through your high school. You’ll be surprised what a difference that makes. Sending you a big hug of encouragement. Bel xoxo

Thank you so much, I’ve been feeling really down about my weight on a whole recently and the cellulite isn’t helping, especially being a dancer and constantly being so self critical seeing everybody around you and comparing yourself. Your advice is greatly appreciated again thanks a ton xoxo

My pleasure Amber..totally understand re the dancing – I’m sure you’re not alone in feeling self critical. It’s really important to keep a healthy, balanced self image and allow your naturally beautiful self to shine out, rather than trying to be something or comparing yourself to something that doesn’t feel right for YOU! Have a talk to your Mum – you have a wise head on your shoulders so I know you’re going to be OK!! Bel xo

Hi Belinda I have a similar story to mckenzie. I am 25 now and I have a lot of cellulite on the backs of my legs. When I was 20 I embarked on a weightloss journey. I used to weigh 135 and I got down to 110 by eating a cup of cooked egg whites on the morning and then only drinking coffee and chewing gum until 7 pm , then for dinner I would eat 7 cups of organic leafy greens and low carb vegetables, as well as another egg white omelette it a 8oz serving of white fish. I also ate dessert which was frozen yogurt (Ingredients: Water, Fructose, Yogurt & Whey Blend, Maltodextrin, Probiotic Culture Blend (Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. bulgar icus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Streptococcus thermophilus) Guar Gum, Calcium Phosphate, Carrageenan, Xanthan Gum, Vanilla Flavor.)

I had zero cellulite and my workout was an hour of elliptical on a high incline and moderate resistance. I would also lift light weights for 3 times a week. Then I went through a very stressful life event. I ended up not eating as healthy and I worked out for two hours doing cardio. I got down to a low weight, but suddenly I was riddled with cellulite on my hamstrings. From ages 22 to now at 25 I have been unable to cure the cellulite. Granted, I do eat some packaged products now such as quest protein bars and I do add some more carbs. I eat the egg whites and salad but I also include mini snacks and nibbles through the day. I am so worried I lost all my muscle due to the under eating (I was 105 pounds for 5 months and only ate 1 meal a day) after that period I was just stressed so I began to eat a lot more and I am now 135 pounds. I don’t know what to do now because I am afraid that cardio will make me loose even more muscle. I do have some muscle because I have been doing some circuit training 3 times a week for 3 months. Stuff like jump lunges push ups etc, but my hamstrings are so weak and I feel deep pockets of dimple when I touch the backs of my legs. They look small which makes me nervous that I have barely any muscle. What should I do now? I keep hearing oh lift super heavy and eat a lot of clean food to bulk up but I feel that will make me even “fatter” I have about 23-24% body fat now but I look skinny fat. Would you recommend your program for me? I am really hoping I can heal my legs, But don’t know where to start because I am researching on the Internet and seeing thousands of different answers on how to get rid of cellulite. Some people even say it’s impossible to get rid of at this point and I should just accept it, but I really don’t want to give up. I want to be able to wear a bathing suit and feel good about my body, not ashamed because I didn’t care for it.

Also I am 5’7.

Thank you so much Belinda! I look forward to hearing from you and I want to look as amazing as you do! Please tell me how you did it!

Hello Julia! Lovely to meet you and I really understand the journey you’ve been on and all the ups and downs. I agree there is information overload online and most of it about cellulite is misinformation! Which makes things even more stressful and confusing. At 38 I was riddled with deep cellulite from the waist down – after years of too much sugar and no exercise. If I can do it, any one can! So there is hope, more than hope – concrete evidence that with the right workout program and a few tweaks to your eating – your legs and body can firm up and smooth out.

For the female body, especially the lower body, I find bodyweight and fusion style (a mix of bodyweight, weights, power band and even a step)..are the ideal way to build muscle density – not muscle volume/size – but firm toned strong muscle in all the places we need – the hamstrings, butt, inner and outer thigh, saddlebags and quads. Many traditional workouts, running and treadmill etc favor the quads (front of the legs) so that the inner and outer and the back of the legs and even butt are underdeveloped leading to what you describe. By strategically building muscle in the right place you and can firm, smooth and lift from the inside out!

YES I do think my program can help you. You’re too young to not wear a bathing suit – you deserve to be able to wear what you want feel really good about yourself.

If you’re prepared to workout 3 times a week regularly, and follow my eating guidelines which aren’t strict but have some specific strategies – and stick with it, you will see the results. Once you join, you’ll be able to read about all the stories of other girls like you and see their progress photos which will be inspiring. I hope this helps and when you join, please let me know by posting the forum so I can help you get started with the right weekly routine.

Like everyone else I have cellulite issues. I’m active, work out doing weights and body weights regularly but nothing will change my cellulite. Especially when in the sun I notice just how covered my bum and legs actually are. I’m over being too insecure to wear shorts or a bikini especially at 22!! Any advice would be so appreciated.
Thank you!

Hi there! At 22 you’ve got the world at your feet and way too young to be worrying about cellulite….so let’s see. What is your nutrition like? How often do you eat refined foods, sweets, treats and bread etc? What about alcohol? Medications? How often are you training and what exactly are you going? What is your height and weight? Let me know and I will see if I can help!! Hugs, Bel xo

Alcohol is very rare. Only medication would be a contraceptive pill. Height is about 175 and weight is about 65kg. I think I sit at about 22%bf obviously trying to decrease. (Sorry Australian) training is about 4-5 times a week of weights, body weight exercises like lunges, squats, jumping squats etc. My diet is generally clean non processed foods apart from the occasional splurge. Could maybe be better. Thank you!

Your eating and training seems good and based on your height, weight and body fat it sounds like you’ve got a decent amount of muscle. I’d suggest two things, trying my Nice Butt Workout and see how that goes re muscle soreness – if you’re quite sore then my workouts could be what you need to do the trick. Also, feel free to send me some lower body photos to me via my Help Desk and I can advise more specifically from there.

I feel I hold majority of my fat in my lower half which doesn’t help my cause. I’ll definitely give them a go and see if that works. I will send some photos in the next couple of days. Fingers crossed it solves my problems as I don’t know how much more insecurity i can take!

Hi Belinda I have a similar story to mckenzie. I am 25 now and I have a lot of cellulite on the backs of my legs. When I was 20 I embarked on a weightloss journey. I used to weigh 135 and I got down to 110 by eating a cup of cooked egg whites on the morning and then only drinking coffee and chewing gum until 7 pm , then for dinner I would eat 7 cups of organic leafy greens and low carb vegetables, as well as another egg white omelette it a 8oz serving of white fish. I also ate dessert which was frozen yogurt (Ingredients: Water, Fructose, Yogurt & Whey Blend, Maltodextrin, Probiotic Culture Blend (Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. bulgar icus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Streptococcus thermophilus) Guar Gum, Calcium Phosphate, Carrageenan, Xanthan Gum, Vanilla Flavor.)

I had zero cellulite and my workout was an hour of elliptical on a high incline and moderate resistance. I would also lift light weights for 3 times a week. Then I went through a very stressful life event. I ended up not eating as healthy and I worked out for two hours doing cardio. I got down to a low weight, but suddenly I was riddled with cellulite on my hamstrings. From ages 22 to now at 25 I have been unable to cure the cellulite. Granted, I do eat some packaged products now such as quest protein bars and I do add some more carbs. I eat the egg whites and salad but I also include mini snacks and nibbles through the day. I am so worried I lost all my muscle due to the under eating (I was 105 pounds for 5 months and only ate 1 meal a day) after that period I was just stressed so I began to eat a lot more and I am now 135 pounds. I don’t know what to do now because I am afraid that cardio will make me loose even more muscle. I do have some muscle because I have been doing some circuit training 3 times a week for 3 months. Stuff like jump lunges push ups etc, but my hamstrings are so weak and I feel deep pockets of dimple when I touch the backs of my legs. They look small which makes me nervous that I have barely any muscle. What should I do now? I keep hearing oh lift super heavy and eat a lot of clean food to bulk up but I feel that will make me even “fatter” I have about 23-24% body fat now but I look skinny fat. Would you recommend your program for me? I am really hoping I can heal my legs, But don’t know where to start because I am researching on the Internet and seeing thousands of different answers on how to get rid of cellulite. Some people even say it’s impossible to get rid of at this point and I should just accept it, but I really don’t want to give up. I want to be able to wear a bathing suit and feel good about my body, not ashamed because I didn’t care for it.

Hi Belinda
I am a 19 year who has had cellulite problems all my life, I dont know if its genetic or not but it really has affected the way I feel about my body.I have always been active, played hockey since I was 11 and weigh about 55kgs. I am so young, yet i feel so ashamed to take off my clothes and walk around in a bikini. I am sure that even a mother has better looking thighs than mine. I have tried so many products over the years and nothing helps. If you any tips on how to help me get sexy snd toned looking thighs i would appreciate it. Thanks

Hi Eleanor, lovely to meet you. It’s quite common for cellulite to first appear when you are a teenager, I know mine did. At 19 it might feel like a long time that you’ve had it, but in the big picture of life – you’re in a great place to get the body you want and enjoy living it for a long, long time

It makes me sad to hear your ashamed to take off your clothes and be in a bikini – but you wanna know something, a lot of girls your age and even older feel the same way. “Products” don’t help cellulite because they don’t deal with the root cause, the underlying muscle structure.

It’s great that you’re fit from the hockey – that will help you. I’d recommend some simple bodyweight exercises to tone up and strengthen your legs. Three times a week for 6 weeks. I would be extremely surprised if you don’t start to see some improvement, but you have to be consistent and committed and not short cuts or cheating

The Symulast Program is very good, I highly recommend it. Yes it’s an investment but you’ll have it for years to come and it’s a very useful workout that you can watch and follow along on your ipad or phone.

Apart from that, clean eating! No sugary foods, sweets, cakes, buns, sodas etc or fast food. A few treats a couple of times a week is OK but on a daily basis lots of fresh vegetables, fruit, lean protein and some healthy carbs like quinoa, beans, wild rice etc. Just try to eat everything “fresh” nothing processed – that’s a good start!

I have had cellulite since puberty and I have quite a bit of it despite being slim (I am 165cm tall and about 60kg). I used to be a long distance runner and this got rid of cellulite, but running makes me too skinny and I lose all of my curves. I now do yoga regularly, plus walking and running but I try not to do too much exercise and cardio as I lose weight too quickly. I eat well and drink plenty of water. I also dry body brush and massage in the hope of improvement of cellulite. If I lift heavy weights on my lower body will this make a difference as nothing has worked for me so far?

I’ve worked with a lot of women like you.. who despite being slim have cellulite. When you ran long distance you lost the cellulite because of having very low body fat – but that’s not sustainable or healthy to be that skinny – or attractive as you mention. To get rid of the cellulite without losing weight, you need to build up the muscle fibers, the muscle tone and density – so the skin is firmed and made smoother from the inside out. Your body will start to reshape (rounded butt, defined thighs)..which will give you those feminine curves without gaining body fat.

I don’t recommend heavy weights – as they put a lot of strain on your joints, ligaments and tendons over the long term. I recommend bodyweight training designed specifically to target women’s trouble zones. The exercises you need must be very focused, and done at the right tempo (not too fast), with the right technique – to activate the slack muscles…so they start to build up strength and lift..lift your butt, inner thigh and lower body.

This combined with the eating nutrient dense foods that help feed your muscles and skin, will turn your body around.

I just saw Pili’s before photos and I have to say that it was quite upsetting, as I would be more than happy to have her old butt and thighs! She looks fantastic now but her cellulite was barely even noticeable to begin with. For her friends and family to be shocked when they saw her legs, well they must have some really unreasonable standards about how a young girl should look.

The cellulite I have on my butt and thighs is FAR worse than Pili’s old pictures, yet my partner doesn’t even notice and thinks that I am the sexiest thing in the world. It is only me who has a problem with it and now that I am thinking about it, it is due to the media images of cellulite-free women I have been bombarded with my whole life. Of course I will still be training my body to become more toned and smooth out the dimples, but my perception has changed, and I now believe that beauty really IS in the eye of the beholder!

I understand! Unfortunately yes, the standards were very high…in that culture. When Pili first started with me the cellulite was a lot worse than the before photos but as you know…it’s hard to publicly share things like that. She had such high standards for herself, mostly due to the expectations of those around her.

That’s awesome your partner thinks you’re the sexiest thing in the world!! So many women would give anything to hear that off the lips of the person they love.

Kudos to you for the epiphany about the images in the media, and the perception of your body – that’s a massive positive shift which will make a big difference to your happiness. With the women I work with, I always try to help them “make peace” with their body. Learn to love themselves, flaws and all. And realize that 99% of other people don’t even see the imperfections that give them so much angst.

Thanks for the reply, I am very lucky to have such an awesome partner.

So I have been working very hard at the gym with bodyweight and weight training for the last two months. My legs look much better and much more toned but I don’t understand what is happening to my butt – It has shrunk and lost quite a bit of fat but it has not toned up like my legs and is still covered in cellulite! I was worried about my butt shrinking because the rest of my body will look out of proportion as I am curvy all over.

It has only been 8 weeks and I don’t want to give up my exercise program yet, do you have any suggestions?

Hi Aggy, lovely to hear back you – very happy to hear your legs are looking much better and toned! I need a bit more information before answering re your butt shrinking. Let me know the workouts, what exercises and how often and I will reply back! Bel xo

Hello Belinda, I am really struggling with what to do. I have read and researched many types of workouts for the issues I want to work on but there is so much out there hard to know what really works. I am 37 and have an 18 and 15 year old which left me with the dreaded wrinkled area in my abdomen. I am 5’3″ and weigh about 120 I really don’t want to lose more weight because I feel I already am looking slightly sickly or my bone structure. But I do want to work on my tone especially on the back of the arms, that wrinkled belly thing, and mostly to get my butt where it belongs off my thighs and rounded and decrease the dimpling cellulite:( I know many things are genetics but I have not been exercising and feel that these are possible places on my body that with work I can improve. I want to be defined in my muscles not to the point of excessive but slightly more than just tone were areas don’t jiggle when you walk or move ever so slightly. I have never felt comfortable being naked and now want to work on that along with just feeling good increasing my energy and stamina. I was doing a Hand to Hand combat class to release aggression and was feeling much better but it became costly and time consuming trying to work and attend classes along with injuring my elbow doing awful burpies was not fun either at my age. That type of workout was interesting and fun unlike going to our small town gym were its Zumba or walking on the treadmill while the extreme body building type look on which is very uncomfortable. I don’t want to feel as though I have to get dressed up in the newest workout gear and be presentable to do a workout and that is what going to the local gym feels like. So I really don’t know where to start I know because I am at a descent weight many look at me and think “whatever you are in shape you look great” but really I’m not. I fatigue easily and have no motivation but I do have the WANT:) I used to do Tabeo long ago but it was more cardio to lose weight and don’t know is what I really need to do. I also have looked at multiple reviews and testimonies about the Brazilian Butt Lift and really thinking about purchasing it but not sure if it is where I need to go either for the results that I am looking for. Can you please maybe at least head me in the right direction for the issues I am concerned with and the goals I wish to possibly reach? Thank you for your time and for this informative blog it’s the best through info I have found so far. Sincerely Wendy Jo

There is so much information out there – information overload, it is hard to know what really works.

Thanks for sharing your story, I am sure many women reading this can relate..to your feelings re the different classes and the gym environment…

At your weight with a petite bone structure – yes you can look good in clothes…but as you mentioned, it’s what’s happening underneath that really counts, in terms of muscle firmness and tone…everyone deserves to feel good naked. When you do, your clothes will look even better on you..in fact you’ll rock that little black dress 😉

RE the Brazilian Butt lift, the exercises will burn calories and build muscle….but it won’t address your upper body..and you may need a routine that’s less cardio vascular – to build the muscle tone you need. For that reason I’d recommend the Symulast Program – as it has specific exercise, done in a very methodical and precise way that build the muscle tone where you need it – plus it has different levels so you can start easier and gradually increase the intensity as you get fitter.

I know you want to change, so don’t put off doing “something”, start NOW! Once you get started the rest is easy.

Hello.
I am devastated at what my body has become. I am age 43, 5’4 and 255 pounds. I have been over 200 pounds since I was 22 but was always firm but over the last 5-6 years I have experienced 4 surgeries, a broken and dislocated ankle and this year loss my mother in June and was in a serious car accident in August that dislocated my hip, severe bruising, and a hip socket fracture. I lost 10 pounds during my 19 day stay in the hospital and another 10 since I have been home but I am mushy all over and have no idea how to get my body back in shape. I am currently starting to bear weight on my right side in PT after being non weight bearing for 12 weeks. My doctors have suggested a 100 weight loss to ward off arthritis and reduce hypertension. Right now I am so afraid I’m going to end up a 150 pounds full of mush and saggy skin as today I look awful. I found this article searching for hope. Any suggestions or advice you can offer is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Hi Laree, lovely to hear from you but so sorry to hear about all the surgeries and losing your mother. What a stressful few years you’ve had. I admire that you’re researching online and reaching out for support. It sounds like your doctors are great and I am very happy to hear you’ve started the PT. That is vital to getting back to a better quality of life, a better body and feeling good about yourself again.

The key is to gradually and gently build up your muscle tone – while losing weight through good nutrition. A big part of that weight loss will be getting committed to what goes in your mouth every day. Cutting out sugar, any pre-prepared food, any food with chemical additives (check the labels), cakes, buns, lollies, sweets, ice-cream and of course avoiding alcohol. Try to only eat fresh fruit, a wide range of vegetables, whole grains (like brown rice, oats, quinoa, beans and lentils) and lean protein (chicken, lamb, beef, fish) with some dairy like yogurt and milk. If you do this, you should start to lose weight – but more importantly, your body will be getting all the nutrients it needs to heal quickly and get your strength back. As that happens, you’ll start to feel the strength returning to your muscles and each day and week you’ll be able to do more – with the help of your doctors and PT.

Set yourself some simple daily, weekly and monthly goals around your eating (use a diary if you need to, to track your progress). And mark your diary on the days you do PT as well. After 6 weeks you should see a pattern emerging of how you’re feeling and your progress is tied to what your eating and doing – make sense? And this will help motivate you and plan things going forward. Remember, something is better than nothing, so taking action by doing this will make you feel better than reading zillions of articles online lol (speaking from experience here).

I know these may seem like baby steps to start, but I’ve learned that the biggest successes in life, often come from doing the small things right every day!

Sending you a huge hug and please keep me updated on how things are going, Bel xo

Wow! Thanks Belinda for the quick response. I am going to print out your reply and get started on a plan. Can you tell me if you offer coaching and how I would go about doing it because I know I will need a support person? I thought about a local personal trainer but just can’t afford one right now. My family is not interested in changing their eating habits. It has been a struggle since I left the hospital because my diet changed and I couldn’t cook for myself. But now, I have to resist what they eat and follow a new plan.

Thanks again for the information and encouragement you’ve provided so far.

Hi Belinda! Thank you so much for your fitness and health advice. You look amazing and I hope I can look half as great as you do ! I’m 5’7 and 25 years old. I got into health and fitness when I was 20 years old and I developed a plan where I would eat only egg whites and salad, chew lots of gum to ward off hunger and i was a slave to the elliptical machine. I would go for 1.5 hours every day. People would tell me i should model because i had great muscle tone and zero cellulite! I think my mother getting diagnosed with cancer lead me to use fitness as an escape and stress relief. WHen I was working out I didn’t have to think about my mom’s health. I used it as an escape. I was also caring for her as an only child and my mom really is my best friend. I am so close to her and it really was a devastating blow to my heart to see her battling through this cancer.

Three years later my mother is still here with me and I am ovejoyed that the treatment is helping. However, through the stress of it all I began to slack off at the gym and I lost a lot of muscle tone. I had my weight and body fat checked and I am 87lbs of lean mass and 25lb of fat. I used to restrict my food intake and I was still not losing any weight. Thankfully I am eating more now! Healthy things such as chicken, salad, eggs(whole) some cottage cheese and nuts. So now I weight 112lb, but I don’t have much muscle tone because I spent 6 months working out for two hours on the elliptical and restricting food to about 700 calories per day. I used to weigh 109 and I was much more lean(less body fat). I know I shouldn’t concentrate on petty things, but I feel that I let myself go and now I am paying the consequences. I have very thin legs, but when I sit down my butt is like a pancake with lots of cellulite. I want to be healthy when I get older and I see how important my health is because of what my mom is going through

I bought Joey’s program last week and I really do feel the burn in the areas that are prone to the dimples. However,I also want to find a program I can stick to and work out at home. Is your get lean program something you would recommend for me? Or should I just stick to Joey’s program? Sometimes I feel stressed out at the gym so I will go lift weights for a few weeks and then stop completely because I am burnt out and not seeing results.
Do you think I could build up my muscle tone in the 12 weeks you provide? I want to do bodyweight exercise , however, I do have a barbell with two 25lb weights and two 10lb weights, a fitness bench, and a set of dumbbells at home (heck, I even bought a pull up bar/roman chair machine for hanging abs!)

Is your program something I could ease into and stick to? I am getting motivated because unlike other trainers I have seen, you actually answer your comments and questions with such an in depth analysis. It is really lovely to see that you care about others!
Best of luck and I hope to hear from you soon!! xx

Hi Jules, lovely to meet you! This morning I saw a ticket from you on my Help Desk with the same information that you’ve posted here – and replied in detail about 30 minutes ago. Check your Inbox!

As I mention in my reply, you’re very young to have to have to face your mother’s illness, especially being an only child – my heart goes out to you. I lost my Dad to cancer at 34 years – so I do understand…

I am over the moon that your mother is responding to her treatment and you’re now feeling stronger to focus a little back on yourself – and your health and wellbeing. After all, you need to feel strong and centered and happy in yourself – to keep giving out to your Mom.

Hi Belinda!
I love this article and really enjoyed reading it! i am wondering if you could please give me some advise? I realize that weight training and proper diet are necessary to get rid of cellulite. I almost competed in figure about 10 years ago, and living the “bodybuilder lifestyle” is the only time in my life that I’ve never NOT had cellulite. Even though I’ve always been anywhere from 98-110 pounds at five foot two inches. Lately though, I’ve noticed that my cellulite is getting worse now that I’m older. Recently I’ve been doing squats, lunges and other leg excersises, but I’m noticing that I’m gaining muscle very quickly below my awful cellulite, making me appear larger on my lower body. Any advise? I don’t want to eat like I’m competing anymore, I’m just wondering if I should stop the heavy weights since all it seems to be doing is making me look “bulky”. I just want to lose the cellulite so that my leg muscles will be small and defined underneath. Any advise would be so appreciated. I’m having 3 protein shakes a day, fruit and a sensible meal at night. Thanks!!

I understand exactly what you’re talking about here. Most of the women I train like you, I move to either bodyweight or a fusion style of lower body workouts – that build lean, dense, tight muscle, to firm and tone from the inside out. Rather than training heavier to build muscle volume/size. You’ve probably got a genetic propensity to build muscle size – so your training would need to be carefully approached, mostly bodyweight, with some higher intensity moves combined with some slower muscle toning moves – to improve your body composition. It would be interesting to know your body fat %. 3 protein shakes a day sounds like too much. I would prefer naturally sourcing the protein at breakfast, lunch and dinner – having your carbs earlier in the day and limiting them at night. If you need more guidance re the cellulite check out the Symulast Program in this article. If you’d you’re interested in my programs check out my Get Lean Program.

Hi Belinda,
First let me say how inspiring I have found your story. You look absolutely amazing. I cannot believe I have discovered your blog at this point in time. I have always been fit and healthy, I was a competitive swimmer in my youth training 7 days a week twice a day. I was never scared of hard work in the pool or gym and my philosophy remains the same now. I have always exercised up until 4 months ago. I was in the gym 4 nights a week with my own personal trainer performing arduous program’s including German Volume Training . Then one small problem occurred, hubby had to start working away from home so I could not get to the gym because we have a 3 year old that needed his mummy when she finished work. I feel like a fish out of water to say the least and not training is getting me down. I’ve noticed that my stomach is bloated all of the time and that my cellulite which had dramatically improved looks worse than ever. I feel like I am stuck in a rut. My personal trainer promised to send me programmes to follow at home but they never emerged which has been thoroughly disappointing as we had trained together for the past 2.5 years and I suppose I expected a little bit of support given the circumstances regarding childcare etc. Hubby is due back home in 3 weeks and he wouldn’t dream of commenting on my appearance in a negative way at all. I will be able to return to the gym although I’m joining a new one as do not want to see my old trainer , one because I’m embarrassed about how much muscle bulk and tone I have lost, two because I feel let down by him not delivering what he promised and three I think I need a change of scenery to get me fired up again. Problem I have is all of my life I’ve had a trainer telling me what to do, in my youth it was my swimming coach and now I’m older it’s been my PT at the gym. I feel that I have come to rely on others training methods etc and although I have a good idea what I need to do myself I love having a program to follow religiously that I can see results with. Could your program be the help that I am currently so desperately seeking? May I ask is it just one payment to obtain the get lean package or is it monthly subscriptions?

I can relate to the experience of knowing you need to evolve beyond depending on a trainer but feeling unsure about the next step. I remember when I started training myself – I lacked confidence. It was through a lot of trial and error and experimenting that I discovered the system I have now (designed for the female body) and put into Get Lean. I think my program would be great for you for a few reasons – one because it offers Resistance Training up to Advanced Level. And also because there are a ton of fusion style and pure bodyweight workouts that you could also do at home. I think you’ll be surprised how effective they are after training heavy weights (that was my background also).

To answer you question – you can buy the program on it’s own – or with the monthly subscription. If you want to buy just the program – go here:

Hi Belinda, I just start reading your blog and got excited to hear I can find help somewhere. I have been struggling with my legs for a while. When I was about 14 I lost about 16kg without doing any strength exercise so I think I pay for that now. My legs other than having cellulite have flabbiness.
The worse part is my inner legs. I suffer a lot with it. I have never been able to wear shorts…even biquini is a torture for me… I have been using the ones with a little skirt on it but even still I feel uncomfortable. I feel like it has been getting worst each year. I went to a lake trip not to long ago and decided that something need to change about it… I can’t no longer suffer like that anymore. I decided to start Jillian Michaels workout ( killer buns and tights). I have been doing it for 4 weeks and have been feeling good about it. My legs look more muscle but my inner tights still look horrible. Do you think I am gonna be able to fix that flabby skin there? I do the exercise 5 times a week. Should I do any other kind of exercise with it? The problem is that I don’t have much free time,
I have a 6 months old daughter and workout when she is sleeping. I can send some pics if you would like to. I just wanna be happy and my legs really bother me. Thank you!

Congratulations on getting started with exercising, over time it will make a huge difference. If you’re seeing progress in 4 weeks and are exercising 5 times a week, things will keep getting better. It takes time to build muscle firmness and for the loose skin to tighten up. But it will happen. The inner-outer thigh is always one of the toughest areas – because you need to specially target those hard to reach muscles.

Try this workout booster (you can add onto the end of you JM routine: Inner-Outer Thigh Workout <<<
Also add in a full body exfoliation (during your shower) twice a week and eat lots of fresh whole foods (try to cut out sugar and reduce alcohol).
Let me know how it goes!
Bel xoxo

Hi Belinda, I just start reading your blog and got excited to hear I can find help somewhere. I have been struggling with my legs for a while. When I was about 14 I lost about 16kg without doing any strength exercise so I think I pay for that now. My legs other than having cellulite have flabbiness.
The worse part is my inner legs. I suffer a lot with it. I have never been able to wear shorts…even biquini is a torture for me… I have been using the ones with a little skirt on it but even still I feel uncomfortable. I feel like it has been getting worst each year. I went to a lake trip not to long ago and decided that something need to change about it… I can’t no longer suffer like that anymore. I decided to start Jillian Michaels workout ( killer buns and tights). I have been doing it for 4 weeks and have been feeling good about it. My legs look more muscle but my inner tights still look horrible. Do you think I am gonna be able to fix that flabby skin there? I do the exercise 5 times a week. Should I do any other kind of exercise with it? The problem is that I don’t have much free time,
I have a 6 months old daughter and workout when she is sleeping. I can send some pics if you would like to. I just wanna be happy and my legs really bother me. Thank you!

Hi Belinda!
I’m 5’7″ and 127 lbs. I have been working out for 4 months and eating about 2200 cals. My starting weight was about 120lbs. I built some muscle but I have increased cellulite. Everything I read says I need to keep eating a lot. I’m very depressed over the cellulite. It’s always visible on the front and back of my thighs. Do I cut cals or will that make it worse? I’m so afraid to eat more. I desperately need guidance. I lift as heavy as I can and workout about 6x a week. I follow a clean diet. Thank you so much

It doesn’t sound like this program is working for you. The traditional heavy weight training system is not what you need for getting rid of cellulite. If you’ve gained weight and increased cellulite something isn’t right. I suggest you take a look at my Get Lean Program which contains a 90 Day (3 month) leaning out program together with workouts design to specifically target the female trouble zones and cellulite. I’ll take a look at your photos if you like and if you need to increase muscle mass (as opposed to muscle density which I suspect you need more off – not size) we’ll tailor your nutrition.

I am surprised you referred to Pili’s cellulite as “riddled with deep cellulite all over her legs and butt.” I noticed 1 small dimple on her buttocks. It makes me feel a bit discouraged because my cellulite is significantly worse.

I’ve followed the symulast routine for just under a month and while my muscles feel tighter I am not seeing a change in appearance. I am 34 5 5 and weigh 125. Like others say I am skinny fat and have had cellulite since puberty.

When I started, I felt optimistic that finally something would work. Does symulast or your program work for truly deep cellulite, not what Pili had?

I can send pics of my cellulite so you can see how significantly worse mine is.

As I am sure you can appreciate, Pili did not feel comfortable with her worst before photos being published online (they were that bad). But I understand re feeling discouraged. If you’ve had the cellulite since puberty then it will take time to turn your body around and start improving visually. I normally say at least 4-6 weeks. It’s encouraging your muscles feel tighter and the visual changes should follow.

I hope this helps and if you send your photos I’ll be able to advise further!

I feel very depressed about symulast not working for me. It’s been 2 months and I do the routine every other day and 3 reps. I very quickly felt the muscles getting tighter but at 2 months in there is absolutely no visible improvement in the cellulite.

I got so excited when I first started and believed that it work. Thoughts entered my mind that finally I would be able to wear a bathing suit or at the very least shorts. And that I could finally go to the pool with my niece and nephew instead of hiding.

But with no change, I am not comfortable doing those things.

I’ve been following the program exactly and have done nothing incorrectly so the only determination I can make is that it does not work

Hi Belinda,
After being ill and having a baby, I lost about 8kg in the space of 3-4 weeks and managed to put back on another 3-4kg after this. I now have cellulite on my thighs and calves. I’ve always had a little up top and on the butt which I could deal with but on the calves and the front of the thighs especially around the knees is devastating. I seem to have lost a lot of skin elasticity as well. I haven’t worn a skirt in 2 years.

I have started pilates three times a week, I walk about 1-2km a day and am trying to eat better. I also have massage and cupping. Would doing more cardio and weights at the gym assist in getting rid of it?

I never had it on my front thighs and calves before. I am concerned that if I drop the weight and tone up that it will reappear if I put on a little, when I have been this weight before and didn’t have cellulite like this.

Hi Emma, lovely to meet you. Sorry to hear about the weight roller coaster.. that can really play havoc with your metabolism and body composition. There are a few factors at play here but yes, nutrition, your hormones (and medications) and most of all your exercise routine all are important parts of the solving this puzzle. I wouldn’t recommend a lot of steady state cardio, rather, intervals and high intensity training. The most effective and long term solution is a system of exercises specifically designed to get rid of cellulite – like the Symulast Method here or my own Get Lean Program. These will help build muscle density to firm and tone from the inside out.

Hi Belinda!
My name is Eliza, I am 29 years old 5″3″ and currently 135 lbs. I have always had an “athletic type body” which puts muscle mass on rather quickly. As of my mid twenties I have struggled with cellulite. I have it on my calves, butt, a bit on my lower stomach and on my thighs (even on the sides on my thighs). It has made me extremely embarrassed and makes me want to hide my legs from sunlight! I have always workout in the gym and done heavy lifting especially squats. As of late I have been searching high and low for the truth about cellulite, and if its possible to truly ever get rid of it. Everything I have done in the past and up to now has clearly not helped. I have strength and muscle in combination with cellulite. To top things off I am facing the big 30 this March and my mother and I have plans to go on a bday cruise in MAY 2014!! I am feeling conflicted, I am looking forward to the trip but at the same time I am dreading showing my legs and butt in broad daylight. This past week In my search to find a solution I came across Joey Atlas Symulast program and more recently your website. I am a fulltime student a year away from getting my Psychology BA. Needless to say I am a starving student. I have NEVER in my life written a blog before but I am at my wits end. I read your story and I truly admire your honesty and ability to share your personal story. I think you look drop dead gorgeous from head to toe! I would give anything to look at least half as amazing as you do! Your my new personal hero! Sorry to make this so long but I really wanted to give you the specifics about my situation. As I said before I have looked up a lot of information about cellulite and I feel as though I have a pretty good understanding about what cellulite is and is not right now. That being said I decided to revamp my entire workout plan. I’m not sure if you are familiar with it but I have recently purchased the Shaun T FOCUS T 25 workout system. As well as the Joey Atlas Symulast program as per your blog info and interview you had with him on your web page. After viewing your in his workout I became interested In you and your story which brought me to your website. After boring you with all this backstory 😛 My question is this:
Granted, I have only been doing the Symulast routine now for a sold week in combination with the T25 for my cardio purposes, in addition I have been eating healthier and following Joey Atlas eating guide for suggestions on how to improve my diet. I understand it is very early on but I wanted to maintain patience and dedication so I have to ask…
Here are my questions:
1. How much time should I truly give the symulast program before I can expect real results? Some testimonials say they saw results in 2-3 weeks, is that even possible?
2. Will it completely tone my thighs (even the outer side of my thighs, which look the worst) as well as my butt and my CALVES? I don’t even understand how I can have cellulite on my calves which also have muscle!
3. Will cardio and ab workouts get rid of the cellulite on my lower stomach?
4. Does your cellulite program and Joey Atlas program use the same methods and moves? In an effort to not make it awkward for you to bash one program over another would you say either program would suit me and make it possible to rid myself of cellulite?!?! Or should I start to save my coins now in case the symulast program doesn’t work, and I need to buy your program to get the results I so desperately want?
Belinda thank you soooooo much for taking the time to read my lengthy blog, I truly appreciate your time and advice!!

Thank you for your kind words and having the courage to share your story here – you are not alone! I know what you’re going through, dreading showing your legs in shorts or a bikini is no fun.

The key to how bodyweight exercise plus correct nutrition can get rid of cellulite is about understanding body composition. We all have a ratio of muscle, fat and water (putting aside our skeletal structure). Even though we may have a lot of muscle and are fit, we can also have a high percentage of body fat – making some people more prone to cellulite. There are so many factors to consider including past diet, past weight fluctuations, medications and hormones – including of course, how they have affected our body composition. Here we’re focusing on what we can control and change – and that is, our diet and our ratio of fat to muscle.

These changes take time as we reduce body fat and build lean muscle – to firm and tone from the inside out. I normally say 6 weeks to start seeing visible changes, which at first will be improved shape and tone. Then will come reduced appearance of cellulite anything between 6 weeks and three months onwards – depending on the person of course. Yes there are aberrations either way, either very quickly or very slowly but that’s my general experience. Personally, when starting a new program I commit to 6 weeks without fretting about seeing visible results – and optimally 3 months.

I think if you commit to the Symulast Program for a solid six weeks, three times a week – you should see improvements that will motivate you to stick with it. If down the track you’re ready to up the ante with more challenging fusion style workouts (that include a mix of bodyweight, weights and pilates), then by all means I’d welcome you to Get Lean and personally coach you through my members website, Aussie Transformation Coach.

In the meantime though, first master all the exercises you have, and push yourself to discover your potential on that program. Make sense?

Hi Belinda! Thank you so much for your detailed, and quick response to my questions! I am extremely impressed and apreciative of your advice. What your saying does make sense to me, and i will do as you recommend and dedicate myself fully to the program for at least 6wks to 3 months. Im glad that i have plenty of time before my cruise to work hard and get results so i will try to keep that in mind and stay positive. I have to admit i am a pretty impatient person when it comes to seeing results so i will have to remind myself of what you said from time to time. Thank you so much again Belinda, i think what your doing for women everywhere with your knowledge and expertise is inspirational and motivating! I will definitely keep you posted on my progress! ~Eliza

I have been following Belinda’s programs now for quite a few months, and I have actually seen some improvement. It is going to be a long process for me as Belinda has been patient in explaining to me, sometimes it depends on the persons muscle to fat ratio as well as your own personal body composition, but to answer your question: following Belinda’s Get Lean 90 day meal plan along with doing her workouts I have to say I’m much better than when I started.

Happy to have found this thread! I feel really bummed out when I look at my legs in shorts – for the first time, I have cellulite on my thighs, and my legs age me though my face is youthful. I’m over 50 – but in good shape. I do weight train twice a week (and heavy weights at that) and cardio 3x a week. I am also a sprinter, and recently won a race in my age group. I am carrying some extra weight – not a ton, but probably 15 lbs. Wondering if that is enough to cause this problem. I like my look and my curves with clothes – but in shorts or a swimsuit, it makes me sad. I am wondering if it’s just an issue of the extra pounds or ?? I also eat a very healthy diet – about half vegan, half lean meats, lots of fruits and vegetables, complex carbs. I probably could improve my water intake – drink about 2 glasses a day. I drink a beer or glass of wine most every day – sometimes 2. Drink about 2 cups of coffee a day. I’d do about anything to get my legs looking good again! As I say, my symmetry and muscle tone are good!

Thank you so much for the advice and encouragement. I clicked on the picture in the blog when I saw it was Kim Cattrall. Yes, those are my thighs to a tee! Before getting a wetsuit like she did, I will try your recommendations. I’m just glad – not really glad, but you know – encouraged to see that others have and have dealt with this unwelcome issue. I’ll look more into the muscle density exercises, too. Think I’ll also try drinking more water to be sure everything’s running through my system as it should be. Giving up alcohol for 6 weeks totally? Oooh, that’s a tough one.

Hi Belinda
I really liked your blog and it relates to me in a very similar way. I am 23 years old and weigh 120 lbs and I am 5 ft 5. My upper body looks great but when I look at my legs and thighs it feels like I am looking at a much older woman ( no offense). I know that I have it from genetics because my mother has it and I never was involved in any sport which I think has made it worse. It has come to the point where I am so self conscious about it that it affects my self-esteem,confidence and everything else in between. I am running like 4-5 times a week about 30-40 minutes and I eat very healthy and eating healthy is not a problem for me. I want to know if there are sets of exercises or strength training exercises that specifically target the cellulite or should I just keep doing cardio to lose the fat around my thighs first? Should I join a gym for weight training or take a class or something that will help me to tone my thighs or at least just melt the fat away. I cant afford a personal trainer right now but I would love to get some advice to direct me in the right path. Everyone keeps telling me how skinny I am and how I have a very small waist and flat stomach but it frustrates me because all the weight goes to my thighs and it looks terrible but not everyone know that!!. Thanks for any advice or help and it is very much appreciated.

Hello! The problems re your weight and lower body are surprisingly common and running wont fix the cellulite issue. Running can be good for losing weight (if done as HIIT) but that’s not your problem. You need to build muscle density – to firm and smooth your skin from the inside out. As you do so, the cellulite will disappear and be replaced by firm, tight muscle that will improve your skin tone.

Why don’t you try my Nice Ass Workout first for 2-3 weeks – then I’d recommend my Get Lean Program as you need to address the nutritional aspects also. Get Lean will give you a complete program of workouts and 90 Day eating plan. Remember, there’s no quick fix – but once you get on the right track you’ll be set for life!

Hi there, i am 21 this year and about 5’1. and I never had cellulite at the back of my thighs until 2 months ago. I have been going to the gym and doing squats/lunges so I can’t seem to comprehend why the sudden appearance of cellulite ? I also recently came to the UK to study..could the weather be any factor at all ?

Hi Carrie – that’s a strange development I admit. Have you ruled out things like medication including the Pill, diet change (increase in sugar, chemicals, refined carbs), more alcohol and anything along those lines. Something has changed. I can’t image it’s the weather though although that might have contributed to you being less active? Hopefully your workouts will kick in – give yourself 6-8 weeks to start seeing the full effect and keep me posted!

I am 44 and have cellulite all over, even on my calves, stomach and legs. I currently powerwalk on a treadmill at least 3 times a week for at least 40 minutes each time. I purchased the Symulast programme and followed it and while I did notice a big improvement in muscle tone, my cellulite did not disappear. What would you recommend I change?
I am also interested in purchasing your getlean programme but want to know how time consuming the diet changes are in terms of meal prep. With 3 busy kids and a full time demanding job I just manage to get one home cooked meal done each day. Thanks.

With the Symulast Program, how long did you do it for? Did the cellulite improve?

What is your current height and weight (did you lose any weight on the Symulast Program)?

One home cooked meal a day is workable on Get Lean and there’s a ton of recipes that are great for you and the family – for the evening meals. If you have time on the weekend to prepare ahead for the week that will help also. Our focus is on quick, super healthy fat burning meals and there’re lots of options

I’m in the same boat as most people on here. I try not to think about it too much but when I go shopping or get dressed in the morning I just get so depressed. You see, my cellulite is so bad it shows through my clothes! I’m 23, 5’6 and about 5-10 lbs overweight. For the past 8 months or so I started eating a clean diet (avoiding artificial foods and sugar mainly). I hate working out but in the last two months I’ve also started going to the gym. No difference do far. I was very thin and active growing up, but I’ve had a big and deep dimple on my butt since I was 12. I don’t remember what life was like before it. It’s always bothered me tremendously but a year ago I notice that the dimple is visible through my clothing! It was always visible through certain fabrics, but I’m talking about through jeans!!!
Buying pants was already so difficult but now its so much harder, because even when something fits, 90% of the time it shows my cellulite. Light pants ate obviously out of the question.
Do you think something this bad can ever be treated with exercise? I’ve never seen anyone with a case this bad.

Hi Hannah, honestly I think I’ve (almost) see it all. All shapes, sizes and types. Yes I’ve seen it where it shows through the clothes. At your age and weight ABSOLUTELY you can change this. Two months isn’t long for working out compared to the years that your body has lived with this. It’s going to be a gradual process of building muscle density, re-shaping, tightening and toning. Together with the right nutrition plan. Don’t give up before you’ve started – your just getting warmed up

Try to focus on your new healthy lifestyle and getting stronger and fitter – and the rest will come.

Many women have radically transformed their bodies by following this approach, rather than allowing the preoccupation with what you don’t like to rob you of your happiness and motivation. Be strong – you can do this!

1. Yes absolutely you can get rid of cellulite with bodyweight workouts, many of my clients have proven this.
2. Yes, I have my Get Lean Program.
3. You can eat carbohydrates but the right type at the right time. Refined carbs like white pasta, rice are not ideal nor is eating starchy carbs in the evening. My Get Lean nutrition plan covers all this.

Hi Belinda,
I have a question. Is there any way to get rid of the cellulite from above my knee? My skin doesn’t hang but my legs are bumpy and gross. I’m not 5’7″ 143 lbs and work out 3-4 times a week running, spinning, turbo jam. How can I get rid of my gross saggy dimpled look? I’m definitely not the BEST eater.

Hi Kim, I’ve had this question often – some women are prone to cellulite in that area.

Two thoughts come to mind. Your nutrition – a diet high in sugar, salt and fat and/or processed foods (chemicals) is a significant factor.

Second, while your workout routine is no doubt great for your cardio vascular fitness – it’s not helping to building the muscle you need below the subcutaneous fat layer (where the cellulite is) to help smooth out the surface of the skin.

I’d recommend a combo of cleaning up your eating and some strategic lower body workouts focused on building muscle density to firm and tone while you lose weight. I’m guessing if you have it above the knee you also have it other places for example the butt or under the butt.

Take a look at some of the before and after pics on my Get Lean Program to see what’s possible.

I hope this helps and please let me know if you have any other questions!

Hey I read this blog and got kinda excited ^^ I’m 21 and I’m a big girl I weigh 278 but I don’t mind the weight I love my body but I would like to firm up everything so that I can get rid of this spare tire and cellulite in my thighs and butt area plus I got some flabby arms I was wondering I’d there is a way to tone everything with out losing all my curves thanks so much for this blog

Hey Keke…sure you can certainly firm up your body and reduce the cellulite while keeping your curves. It would mean changing your body composition – building some muscle and losing some body fat. Exactly, how much of either of those is up to you and the look you want.

Just take it slow, I would recommend walking 45 mins 3 times a week to start, then gradually add in some bodyweight workouts as you start to feel fitter and stronger.

It would also help to reduce your sugar intake and cut out as many refined, preprocessed foods as you can – they have a lot of added chemicals that are not good for your body or healthy.

Hi, I am 20 years old and slightly underweight (about 5′ and 90ib), but I have some cellulite on my butt and the back of my thighs. I find it hard to get motivated to exercise and eat better (I’m a vegetarian but eat plenty of junk food) since I’m generally happy with my body weight/shape and am afraid of getting too thin, but would you still recommend I watch what I eat and do cardio exercises to get rid of the fat that tend to accumulate in that area? Do exercises really work in that situation? Which would you recommend?

Hi Kat! With a few simple changes (and consistency) you should be able to get rid of that cellulite. First, cut right back on the junk food and sugar. Even though you are slightly underweight it’s not about calories, it’s about eating nutrient dense foods, not foods crammed with chemicals that mess with your metabolism and body composition. You need the right nutrients to fuel your body so it functions at it’s best. Second, cardio isn’t the ideal solution for you since you don’t need to lose weight – you need to change your ratio of muscle to body fat. It’s building muscle (we’re not talking about body building) that will help firm and tone and define you, to smooth out the cellulite and give you that fit healthy look.

The Symulast Program would be ideal for you. It’s got some solid nutritional guidelines and a good beginner workout that is fun to do, with the more advanced moves explained for when you are ready.

Thanks for all of the helpful information above. I am 20 years old and I picked up running about a year ago and strength training about 4 months ago, I have done some Brazil Butt Lift and a lot of Jillian Michaels. I had a little bit of cellulite on my legs but nothing was noticeable unless I sat down until now, I have it pretty bad to the point where just standing I can see it and I wont wear shorts. I have heard that the reason why it is getting so bad is because my muscles that are firming up and breaking down the fat and pushing it to the surface, is that true? I know I have made extreme changes to my diet and workout plan and I am hoping that this is just a phase I have to overcome until all of my cellulite is gone.

I found finally a story I can relate too!!! I am a 36 yr old active women who has always been in pretty good shape !! I work out a lot! But for the past couple of years my cellulite is getting worse ! I work a lot with my legs and even though they are toned and muscular I still have this fat pockets showing up from the skin! Is so frustrating! All the hard work and clean diet and I can’t show it off!!!

That isn’t correct re the possible reason your cellulite seems more visible. In fact, building muscle helps smooth out the surface of the skin to improve the appearance. But, if you have lost a fair amount of body fat over a shorter space of time (under a year) it’s possible the skin hasn’t had time to adjust yet and is a little flaccid which makes the cellulite more visible (not worse but just more apparent).

If you’ve been running a year then the above situation is quite possible. It will take a little longer than 4 months to start seeing significant progress from your strength training in terms of muscle development and shape so stick with it and you will see improvements. It takes up to a year for skin to adapt to significant reduction in weight so give yourself some time. Exfoliating regularly in the shower also helps to improve the texture and tone of the skin.

I assume your nutrition is very good – but keep in mind sugar, refined foods, alcohol and even some medications especially those that affect our hormones can contribute to cellulite.

I hope that helps, my gut feeling is you are on the right path to achieving a great body – you just have to be patience as you go through the process of change.

Belinda , Great feed back for Amy! I am wondering what would bey case ? I have never been over weight and always active ‘ I have taking time off and on from strength training and would lose muscle weight !! Still trying to figure this out!!

Belinda! WOW, You are absolutely inspiring! I’m 44 (July) I use to work out years ago, now, I just walk and do some light cardio and have lost my drive for what I once loved. I’ve been a mom for so long and now all three are out on their own and I’m looking for help to get back to what I once loved and looked like. I just stumbled upon this site and am so happy I did. Do you recommend any personal trainers in the Colorado Springs, Colorado area? I will also read up as much as I can on all you have shared and your other sites too. Thank you for being such a beautiful inspiration!! Chrissy

I’m 17 years old and have ugly legs I’ve never weared shorts skirts in my life I really want to its so sad !oc sometimes when I look down at my legs I wish I could do sumthin about it. I’m tierd of not wearing shorts so if I start running every day will tht reduce cellulite? Plus squats and lunges please answer :c I need help advice my bf aways tells me to wear shorts but he doesn’t noe I have really bad cellulite behind my thight , on the side on the front of my thigs almost to my knees alittle on my calves I feel ugly :c help please answer thankyu<3

Hi Anable, I am sad reading you are sad! Listen, you have an advantage with your age – your body will respond very well to changes in your diet and exercising. Try to cut out as much sugar and refined foods (junk food, fatty foods, and packaged foods), and eat natural whole foods. Starting to exercise – yes the squats, lunges and bodyweight workouts will help build muscle tone to firm the surface of the skin and not only that, you will start to feel better about yourself. Talk it over with your parents for their support if you take on an exercise program. Don’t give up, you have plenty of years ahead to enjoy your body without feeling sad!

You don’t want to “diet” where you are restricting your foods or calories too much. Or where it’s unbalanced by focusing on one food. Start by cutting out or cutting back on all sugar (and any foods with sugar in them), sweets, cakes, chocolate, no junk or refined foods, or pre-packaged. If you just eat food that you prepare from scratch (fresh fruit, vegetables, lean meats, yogurt, cheese and a small amount of multigrain pasta, bread and rice) then you are doing well. Eat smaller meals and when you are hungry. When you are full, stop eating. It’s quite simple really! If you do that, you will be well ahead of the average girl your age Belinda xoxo PS. this is quite a good site for healthy cooking and eating: Healthy Meal Planning and Cooking.

I’ve been reading through your advice and was just considering how useful the Symulast method is for erasing/lessening the appearance of stretchmarks, as for me stretchmarks and cellulite come hand in hand. I’m particularly affected on my upper hip/thigh area. It’s so ugly and is totally destroying my confidence – I’m not even 18 and I really want to slip into a pretty bikini! Luckily, I’ve had a massive spurt of self-confidence in the last week or so and have cut out all refined sugars, processed foods and fruit juices etc. from my diet, only eating when I am hungry – which is around 4/5 times a day, and snacking on fruit. Still, I just wanted to know if there’s anything I can do to target my stretchmarks. They’re the bane of my life at the moment.

Hi Ana, stretch marks are very different to cellulite in the cause and also treatment. It’s not unusual to have stretch marks in the areas you mention, especially after growth spurts or rapid weight gain. I still have some stretch marks on my upper thighs on the side from when I was a teenager – but the good news is, over time they do fade. What I’ve found helpful is regular exfoliation (I try to do it in the shower every day) and massage/moisturizing. Of course, a good diet (low in refined carbs, sugars and fats) and high in vegetables, fruits and lean protein and low-fat dairy – makes a difference to keeping your weight stable to avoid future stretch marks and to maintain your skin in optimum condition, keeping it elastic and supple.

Just a little tip: sometimes one application of self tan helps to conceal the stretch marks a little while they are fading.

I hope that helps – try to stay positive, believe in yourself and allow your inner beauty to shine, you have heaps of years ahead to enjoy your life to the max without allowing something overshadow your happiness that in the big picture – is not as awful as you feel it is right now.

Hi Belinda, I have had cellulite since i was about 18. It constantly makes me want to cry! I am 29, 5′ 7″ & 130 lbs. I am thin, but am thick around my hips & thighs. I have been reading a lot about how birth control can cause cellulite sometimes. I also know it can be hereditary, but neither my mom or sister have it at all. I’m very frustrated! I work out 6x a week doing squats and lunges & lots of cardio. I purchased the Brazil Butt Lift system from Beach body. I’m not sure if you are familiar with it, but nothing seems to help! I’m going off my birth control as a last resort. I also eat fairly healthy. Usually a lot of vegetables. Not a lot of sugars or carbs. I don’t know what else to do! If you have any ideas i would LOVE to hear from you!

Hi Haylee – I am so sorry to hear that your cellulite is such a heartache for you – especially over so many years. You are still so young!

I helped many clients just like you – ideal weight, yet lacking tone in the lower body and full of cellulite. My thoughts are this. Yes, for some girls – there is a link between birth control (or even other medications for that matter) and cellulite. So I think going off it is a good idea to at least rule that out. Second, I know girls who have used the Brazilian Butt Lift Program and then tried the Symulast System and according to them – there is no comparison in terms of specific results for improving cellulite.

It sounds like your diet is good – don’t forget to moderate the alcohol also.

Please don’t give up. I think the combo of allowing your hormones to return to their natural cycle plus being on a program that laser targets cellulite – certainly will improve things – hopefully significantly. As someone who had deep cellulite all through my lower body – I know it’s possible!

AS Belinda knows, I’m a proponent of the school of thought that getting rid of cellulite IS possible. Besides Belinda’s advice that she’s offered you, I’ve also found that increasing my water intake can help flush out the toxins, and can reduce any bumpy look I may have on my skin. But I have to say that structuring my diet AND training (weight lifting and cardio) have been the keys to get rid of the “cheese”. Haydee, I believe your success depends on how badly you want it. If it’s that important to you to rid yourself of it, you must become more disciplined with your regimen. You can’t eat “fairly healthy”. Your training must be geared to burn fat and not just increase your cardiovascular conditioning. There’s a difference, right Belinda? If getting rid of the cellulite is your goal, you must do as those before you have done, and expect to work very hard to get there, or learn to love your body with it’s imperfections (we all have them). Decide what you’re willing to do, and what will ultimately make you happy, without making you miserable in the process. Look into HIIT cardio, modify your diet to what promotes fat loss, and above all, expect to work very hard. It IS attainable. As I’ve told Belinda before—I’m a 50 year old woman in the best shape of my life—and it’s a 24 hour/7 day a week/365days a year HARD job to maintain. But I’ve chosen this life, and I’ve never been happier about my body.
(Oh, and try hip thrusters–look them up on YouTube. I swear by them

Thanks Belinda for the continued inspiration. Besides being a physical role model, you conduct yourself with class and dignity. Not everyone in your industry does, and I commend you on your spirit. I want to be you when I grow up! 😛

I have been doing alot of research when it comes to cellulite. I am a very active 36yr girl. I am a petite frame. My arms and abs are very toned and tight. However my Upper legs have cellulite. I do weight training and even changed up my diet and been dry brushing daily. Several argue that you can not get rid of cellulite and it’s heridertary, but I believe you could actually make it alot better. What would your suggestion be for me. My legs are actually pretty toned but I have thoses small pockets.. Please Help..

Hi Manuela, where exactly are the small pockets of cellulite that you have? What kind of weight training routine do you do on a weekly basis – can you give me a sample lower body workout? How long have you been on that routine? Do you feel any post workout soreness? Is your diet free from refined sugars and carbohydrates? What about alcohol?

I have fat & cellulite all over my body even on my upper arms.I also have a lot of body fat even though most ppl say i’m skinny.I was in a bad car accident in Nov.2011 & i have neck & back injuries b4 the wreck iwas working out an hour & a half plus walking 3 or 4 miles a day & my body was starting to shape up,but now i can hardly walk so since i can’t exercise right now is ther any type of diet or supplement that i can use to get rid of some of this fat?

Hi Deborah, I am very sorry to hear about the bad car accident. You can achieve a lot with the right nutrition, especially that your body is healing now. Email me at belinda@getleanprogram.com and we can take it from there! Great to see you are looking for positive steps to take to take care of yourself and not let the accident get the better of you. Stay strong! Belinda xoxo

Thankyou SO much! You have given me hope! I thought it was hormones, that I was toxic and just plain fat! I am not overweight for my height, am active, but carrying more fat than I would like…but it is the CELLULITE that depresses me most! I started on your exercises straight away. I can do this, because now you have given me hope that I can beat this! thankyou thankyou thankyou

My pleasure Elizabeth! There is hope, more than hope, real results that are attainable in the real world Please keep me posted on your progress and full the full program check out the Symulast Method and the interview here:

‘B’ i saw your pictures with the cellulite, you looked so trim and slim. Its kind of amazing that you went from this to what you are now. This is the reward that you get when you work hard, with self beliefe and determination

Hi Dennis – so great to hear from you! Yes absolutely, the change has been incredible..I never would have believed it possible but it just goes to show what can be achieved if you keep raising the bar!!!

I 100% agree with you. I’ve heard for years that there is “no way” to get rid of cellulite. I’m 49 years old, and a couple years back before, I started training, I remember wearing shorts and looking down, and noticing I had cellulite above my knees, on my calves, and the back of my legs (yuck!) Let’s not even discuss how my bottom looked. I was so horrified, and believed all the hype about it “never going away’. It’s now two and a half years later, and after training and dieting hard, I am in the best physical shape of my life. (Ask my 28 year-old bodybuilder boyfriend!), I’m not bragging–I’m here to say that it can be done, but as I said, it has been a lot of hard work. Belinda was the one from whom I took the most inspiration—she wasn’t an 18 year-old girl trying to get in shape for the first time—she was a grown up woman who wanted to see a difference and was willing to do what it takes to get there. One of my favorite quotes is from Wayne Gretzky: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take”. I encourage everyone to go for it. Be willing to put the effort it—it is absolutely attainable. Decide what you want and what you’re willing to do to get it–and listen to Belinda’s advice—she knows what she’s talking about.

Hi Lola! WOW you have made my day with your story and your kind words! I feel inspired reading your comments here AND that you have a 28 year old bodybuilder boyfriend lol – hahahah!! Way to go! I am sure your strength and conditioning work is paying off in more ways than one. In fact, I am so inspired by your words I think I might quote you in my next blog post I am about to write. I am sure many other women will be super motivated to know that there are no barriers to getting the physique you want – once you put your mind, heart, soul and body into it! Keep up the awesome work – I would love to see some of your pics if you have time – please email me belinda@getleanprogram.com

Really great info and it’s also great to know that you are getting results with your clients, and this gives all of us hope. One question, do the weights have to be pretty heavy as I have a knee that just doesn’t cope with “smith’s machine” squats anymore. Regular body weight squats with some heavyish dumbells 5-7 kgs are good, but the pain is bad with more than 10kgs or barbell smith’s machine. I am staying in Brazil and the girls that have the amazing lifted firm butts and legs lift VERY heavy and use 10kg ankle weights to do hip extensions, leg lifts and hamstring curls and other butt shaping moves. It’s awesome to watch, but my knee just doesn’t cope!! What do you suggest – I’m looking forward to reading your next blog and would appreciate you mentioning the weight Pili used as well as the type of exercises and/or reps & sets. Thanks for everything and your continued inspiration!!
Take care, Nikki xxx

Hi Nikki!! I totally hear you on the heavy weights and smith machine squats. Pain is not a good thing. As you know I live in Panama – I call it the land of the Latina butt lol! Whatever size or shape, they work it baby. Sometimes I see girls do a whole workout (similar to what you describe) for their BUTT!!!! Very entertaining. And I know Brazilians are even more obsessed. My next blog will answer your questions and you are going to have a big smile when you hear what I have to say! Now you have me thinking, I think I need to do a butt lifting blog post! Hahaa..thanks for making my day with your sweet comments here! Belinda

Hi Irene, one the things we talk about in the upcoming interview on my next blog is “tempo” so be sure to tune in for that info. Because of your blood stasis issue you’ll want to check with your doctor on cadio recommendations. Your diet question is a big one to answer. Not enough room here for that. I hope you understand but please check out my Get Lean Program http://www.getleanprogram.com

Hi Denise, good question! Pili went to talk about her cellulite a couple of years ago. I am sure she is not alone with seeking medical advice. Later she tried a few non-invasive things like massage and creams with little or no results..
Bel

Hi Belinda I really enjoy reading all your articles! I was over weight most of my life! then 8yrs ago I was in florida on vacation in july and I was so hot and uncomfortable & didn’t want to be there but it was my daughters first time in disney (she was 5) then one night we got back to the room and she wanted to watch what my husband had video taped and I could still remember seeing myself in that video! I mean I knew I was over weight but by this time I had really let myself go so it was an eye opener for me I didn’t look like myself I was so sad & ashamed watching that tape! So when I got home I joined weight watchers and lost 110lbs in a year and a half! I really started working out only a year ago and I love it now but wish I would’ve started 8yrs ago maybe I’d be a lot firmer now! I never suffered from cellulite& I never believed that “skinny girls” could until I met a friend of mine that does and I couldn’t believe it! Long story short I’m now unhappy with my skin im not really flabby but not firm enough to wear a bikini is it possible to firm up more? I lift weights and go to the gym but in the past 3 months haven’t seen much changes and I workout 5 to 6 times a week ? And I’m 33 could age have anything to do with it?

Hi Kerri, 33 is a BABYYYYY! You have your best years ahead of you. That’s a lot of working out consistently not to be seeing many changes so I suspect you could be doing things a lot better. Now, you have come a long way (losing that extra weight) and getting fitter. It’s perfect timing to be upping the ante. I don’t often recommend my Get Lean Program directly but in your case it’s ideal to make sure your weight training is on track (it has a 6 week workout program) plus your nutrition. For where you are at right now it is ideal to starting sculpting and reshaping your body. Belinda xo

I absolutely love all of your posts but I was wondering with this post what specific exercises us cellulite prone ladies need to do for the effects of the muscle pushing up and firming the fat/skin? Great post!!

Hi Gem, thank you I will be posting later this week an example of the exercises I did with Pili and talking about how they specifically target cellulite…very powerful! Please check back in a couple of days and thanks for visiting…Belinda

Great post! Yes, I too have had that “change room mirror” experience! Horrific and demoralising.

However, I’ve been weight-training using heavy weights for the last 18 months or so and have definitely noticed a dramatic improvement in the appearance of cellulite on my legs and butt. I still have some, sure, but it is much better than it was. No fancy creams or anything, just muscle-building and better diet. I generally do squats, deadlifts, romanian dead lifts, T-bends and curtsy lunges, all with dumbbells (10-20KGs). Can’t say I’ve lost much weight, but I have lost inches which can only be a good thing!

Wow Deb really? Not fun at all, I still remember that day like it was yesterday – the feelings, even though I forgot about the cellulite I had long ago. Sounds like you love to work out hard – I love that! And great to hear your cellulite has dramatically reduced. Sometimes when you re-shape your body through weight training although the scale doesn’t go down a lot – you have quite dramatically changed your body composition – which completely revolutionizes the look of your physique. Way better than just dieting to reach a low body weight while still having flabbiness and cellulite! Go girl! Thanks heaps for sharing your inspiring story here xo

I am curious about your weight training! I am a very toned girl that had strong arms and abs! But my legs are a different story! How long till you saw results from your cellulite while training? Maybe I really need to increase my weights!

It took about 6 months to see significant changes in the cellulite. It’s not so much about the heaviness of the weights – but the exercises, sequence, form and tempo – that makes the difference. And being on the right program for your body type. A lot of girls that come to me have the same issue with the lower body – and I put them on a mix of bodyweight and resistance training. Check out this link: Sexy Butt Workout.

I would love to find out what exercises to do. I have a minimal amount of it on the backs of my legs… you can’t notice it in some lighting, but you sure can in fluorescent lighting… I hate it!!! Waiting to her your magical tips!

Hi Susan! Yes I will be demonstrating a couple of exercises on my blog later this week – getting all these comments made me realize I need to do more than just write to you guys – I need to SHOW YOU! Stay tuned!

I agree wholeheartedly Bel. There’s not enough videos of your exericse instructions or routines that have created your amazing body. We need to see more of your happy face. Your a shining spirit and I love sharing in your contageous positive energy!! Smiles, Nikki xx

Hi Sweet Nikki! Wow what encouraging words! I just got back from the gym – my client Tracy offered to film the short vid so I am getting ready to upload now I hope you will feel my energy in it – that is exactly what I do try to give out to you, because I know how much it can make a difference – just feeling the inspiration and motivation to stay strong and healthy AND positive!! Big smile back to you, Bel

Hi Belinda,
Thank you so much for the blog. I almost had tears in my eyes reading it because I have a similar story to Pili. I am a small framed girl and weigh about 53kgs. I work out hard at the gym and love doing weights but still suffer very bad lumpy cellulite. I have spent a fortune on trying different treatments and creams and I watch my diet but it just doesnt seem to get any better. I nearly cry everytime I look in the mirror at my legs and wonder why me. My friends think im silly but its the one thing that really effects my self esteem. I have a bad family history of cellulite and veins and working as a flight attendant doesnt help the cause. I would really like to know of a training programme that I can do to help minimise these horrendous legs of mine. I wish you lived in melbourne so you could be my trainer.
I look forward to hearing your next post
Thanks
Adelle

Hi Adelle and thank you for opening up here. My heart goes out to you, especially because I have seen what Pili looked like first hand and know the pain myself personally. So, there is tremendous hope for you. Nothing is silly especially when it pulls us down and robs us of the happiness of living life to the full. I just finished an interview that you MUST listen to. It will answer a lot of the questions you have. I will be posting it later in the week plus more about the specifics of how to deal with cellulite. I will be in Melbourne next February doing a seminar with Kat Eden of Women Incredible: http://www.womanincredible.com/ If you register here on my site at the top right hand side you will receive information about the seminar closer to the time. I hope we get to meet and you can tell me how you have been able to dramatically improve your cellulite just like myself and Pili and so many other women. Big hug, Belinda

I have been vigorously exercising and have done a good job for myself with weights, etc
But the one issue are the cellulites. How do you get rid of them? What kind of exercises
are required.? Please advise your respond back through my email. Thanks.

Belinda, this couldn’t have come at a more perfect time! I am struggling so hard with this issue right now. I am not overweight, but I am skinny fat and I’m starting to see it on my arms too for the first time ever in my life! I have been fit my whole life except for the past 3 years. I got into an unhealthy relationship that I’m currently working to get out of. The relationship has made me lose myself in it. As I’ve been waking up again, I’ve been seeing other things. The other day I had one of those “mirror experiences” and saw just how much I’ve let myself go. I really, REALLY want to beat this and feel better again. The only way for me to do that is to get back in shape but I don’t want to waste my time doing exercises that go against what I’m trying to achieve. I’ve been researching but haven’t found something that puts it all together, so I feel I have a program in pieces and not all the facts yet.

Also, Belinda I noticed that squats are a number one exercise recommended for getting rid of cellulite on the butt and thighs. In the past, I have had issues with chondromalacia, so sometimes doing too many exercises involving my knees end up giving me a lot of knee pain the next day. Can you also recommend some exercises and activities that help rid one of cellulite while being as gentle as possible to the knees? I also would love to know how often to eat and what to eat. If that is contained in one of your programs, please let me know. Thank You for posting about this Belinda!

Hi Courtney, I am so happy this has come at the right time for you! Those mirror experiences are horrible – but the good news is – it can happen in reverse, that one day you can catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror and realize – you are not the person you used to be, in a good way. I also know that because it happened to me. One day after a few months I caught a reflection of myself in the gym mirror and thought it was some other fit girl then was shocked to realize it was me – my body had changed for the better without me realizing it! So, I hear you on the knees – I believe what I will share later in the week will help you. Please check back and make sure you listen to the audio interview I will post! Chin my baby – things will get better for you! Belinda
PS. For your nutrition yes – please check out my Get Lean Program: http://www.getleanprogram.com
Any questions just email me!

HI Belinda, that was a great blog to read. I have always refered to myself as ‘skinny’ fat. I dont know if that makes sense to anyone else, but basically, I am only very short 154cm in height and only weight 47kgs, but have never been thin looking. I have always been quite ‘well rounded.’ I have cellulite on my outer thighs, and upper arms (around the tricep area) and now since haveing my second child,( Amélie is nearly 4 and Noah is 20mths) I have cellulite on my stomach!!! So its great to hear that I can get rid of this.

Im about to turn 40 in November and am just about to start my 3rd week of your get lean program in combination with your 6 week workout. The aim is not to lose weight, but to change my body shape from flabby with cellulite to toned and lean. So far am enjoying both the food and program…. cant wait to start seeing results! Miam.

Hi Miriam, yes it makes perfect sense! I know it’s frustrating to be skinny but lack muscle tone and have cellulite – fortunately the right kind weight training can deal with both these issues. AND a healthy clean diet – awesome to hear you on Get Lean! You should be feeling the results already and seeing some changes during the next 3 weeks. Are you doing my breakthrough abs program also? Don’t forget to take some “before” pics as it is soooo easy to forget how far you have come when your body changes. I have wished a thousand time over I had pics of my body before my transformation! Stay tuned for more on the details on how to specifically deal with the cellulite issue….
Belinda

Hi Leonie, sorry to hear about your minor stroke. No, there is no other way to treat the appearance of cellulite. Nothing else out there addresses the actual cause of it. Be sure to listen to the interview. It will help you understand this at a much deeper level. And watch the video on my next blog – you may find you are able to do some of the exercises. Take care, Belinda

Hi Shannon, I know you already sent your photos to me and we talked via my Help Desk re nutrition, and time frames to see improvement based on my personal experience. Please check my reply to you again re this It’s encouraging that you’re feeling the muscles getting tighter. Please reply to the Help Desk Ticket I sent you!